I’m thick-skinned but I’ll not accept abuse every time I turn my phone on, especially when my little girl is the target
Politician quits Twitter
SCOTLAND’S Justice Secretary has been forced off social media after sick online bullies started targeting his baby girl.
Humza Yousaf said he’s taking a break from Twitter because of the “relentless barrage of abuse”.
Yousaf is frequently targeted by anonymous idiots because of his race and religion.
In a statement posted on Sunday, he said: “I’m a thick-skinned politician but not going to sit back and just accept abuse every time I turn my phone on, especially when my wee girl becomes the target.”
Yousaf declined to comment further on the ordeal, fearing more abuse from the “same quarters”.
But the level of vile comments is clear from previous posts and replies on his Twitter account.
Yousaf’s daughter, Amal, was born in May.
In April, he posted a video of himself going through the contents of his new baby box – a set of essentials given to any new parent in Scotland if they want it.
He wrote: “Really excited to receive our baby box today. It ensures that every family has the essentials for their little arrival.”
Among the replies were comments aimed at his daughter, including one referring to her as a “rat wean”.
The SNP Government minister has been a high-profile campaigner against Islamophobia, often online. The Record has revealed alarming levels of abuse faced by public figures such as Yousaf and Labour MSP Anas Sarwar.
Last month, it was announced the first ever public inquiry into Islamaphobia will be held in Scotland to probe the scale of the scandal.
Earlier this year, Yousaf revealed he carries a panic alarm and fears for his life after racist death threats were made against him.
He took the measure after advice from police.
An SNP spokesman said: “Online abuse of any sort is unacceptable – everyone has a responsibility to behave respectfully online and to call out abuse when they see it.
“The SNP has been a leading voice in the call for social media platforms to take urgent action. It’s time for Facebook, Twitter and others to take action, not just deliver empty words.”